Bulbs from LIFX are among the brightest available, providing 1,100 lumens each. That’s the same as a 75-watt incandescent bulb, although LIFX only uses 11 watts.

LIFX Generation 3 bulbs promise 16 million colors and 1,000 shades of warm to cool whites. The new LIFX + bulbs add infrared for nighttime use. Both models come in A19 and BR30 sizes, with the BR30 suitable for use outdoors.

LIFX bulbs don’t require a bridge to operate. To get started, just screw the bulbs into your existing hardware and follow the setup instructions in the official LIFX app.

Compatibility and Features — Works with Amazon Alexa, iOS, Android, and Windows.

The Ilumi collection includes A19, BR30 flood lights, and BR30 outdoor flood lights bulbs. Like many other solutions on this list, Ilumi bulbs don’t require a hub or bridge. Instead, Ilumi uses Bluetooth Smart to connect each lamp.

The Ilumi Smart Lighting app is one of the best on the market. With it, you can control up to 50 Ilumi bulbs in your home using your iOS or Android device. The app includes presets and dynamic effects, rise and shine features, and the ability to sync with your music. Better still, the app allows you to set a default color and brightness level when you turn on the bulb using a light switch.

Compatibility and Features — Works with iOS and Android. Amazon Alexa integration coming soon.

Router company TP-Link offers a wide-range of smart bulbs that don’t require a separate hub or bridge. These bulbs are compatible with devices through the free Kasa app (iOS/Android). TP-Link’s premium light is the Smart Wi-Fi LED Bulb with Color Changing Hue.

Compatible with Amazon Echo and Alexa devices, the bulb offers 16 million colors to match any moment. Other features include the ability to set schedules, timers, and countdowns.

Compatibility and Features — Works with Amazon Alexa, iOS, and Android.

The Choice Is Yours

There are already a lot of smart lighting products on the market, with more expected to arrive in the coming months and years. As the market matures and technology improves, these products are only going to get better. If you’re looking to buy a smart lighting product for the first time or to expand your existing smart home system, any of the bulbs mentioned on this list will work well.

What type of smart lighting products do you use in your home? How are they working for you? Let us know in the comments below!

Bryan Wolfe loves new technology. His focus is on Apple and Windows-based products, as well as smart home gadgets. When he's not playing around with the newest smartphone or tablet, you'll find him watching Netflix, HBO, or AMC. Or test driving new cars.